New Delhi: India's public sector Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and British aero engines manufacturer Rolls-Royce commenced construction of a new joint manufacturing facility in Bangalore, where components of Trent family of civil aero engines, marine, and energy gas turbines will be produced beginning 2012.

The production facility, about 7,200 square metres in size, is owned by International Aerospace Manufacturing Private Limited (IAMPL), a joint venture between HAL and Rolls-Royce formed in 2010, according to a release from the company.

"This purpose-built production facility will produce components for the technologically advanced Trent family of civil aero engines, as well as for a number of marine and energy gas turbines. Located near the HAL airport, the facility will start production in 2012," it said.

IAMPL will incorporate the latest Rolls-Royce manufacturing techniques and create job opportunities for highly-skilled technicians and engineers in India.

On the occasion, HAL chairman P.V. Deshmukh said: "Rolls-Royce and HAL have been strategic partners since 1956 when HAL started producing the Orpheus engine under licence. As a result of our strong collaboration, we have progressively contributed to the development of the Indian aerospace industry. This ground-breaking event marks a milestone in the relationship between both our companies that will extend, well into the future."

Rolls-Royce president India Anil Shrikhande said, "This new manufacturing facility demonstrates our commitment to the long-standing partnership with HAL. We plan to develop IAMPL as a centre of excellence, with the latest manufacturing techniques and training programmes. IAMPL furthers our common objective of enhancing high value-added manufacturing in India and will also contribute to the country's growing aerospace and technology industry."

Rolls-Royce has a significant presence in India stretching back 79 years and now has more than 1,300 engines in service, across four global market sectors - civil aerospace, defence aerospace, marine and energy - all well represented in the country.

Rolls-Royce has about 200 employees in India and 650 engineers work on a sub-contract basis in engineering centres in Bangalore.